A cylinder explosion in a North Goa nightclub has claimed at least 25 lives. The blast happened shortly after midnight on Sunday, India Today reported.
The Birch by Romeo Lane club in Baga was set ablaze by the tragic blast and the devastating fire that ensued. The club is situated in Arpora village, which is one of Goa's most popular beaches, and is 25 KM away from the capital of Panjim.
Goa Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Kumar told ANI, "An unfortunate incident occurred in a restaurant-cum-club in Arpora. At 12:04 AM, the police control room received information about a fire, and the police, fire brigade, and ambulances were rushed to the spot. The fire is now under control, and all the bodies have been recovered."
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Among the dead, 4 individuals have been confirmed to be tourists and 14 of the dead have been identified as staff members. Identities of 7 victims are yet to be confirmed, India Today reported.
Visiting the site late at night, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant told ANI, "The incident is very unfortunate for a tourism state like Goa. The people who run such things illegally, and a fire incident occurred...23 people have lost their lives...The government will conduct an inquiry into this incident. The inquiry will examine the exact cause of the fire, and those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law..."
The President and the PM convey condolences
President Droupadi Murmu took to her official X handle to convey condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the fire.
"Deeply pained by the tragic fire incident in North Goa district resulting in the loss of precious lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May they find strength during this difficult time. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," President Murmu wrote.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences as well. "The fire mishap in Arpora, Goa is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. Spoke to Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Ji about the situation. The State Government is providing all possible assistance to those affected," the Prime Minister wrote.
Prime Minister Modi also announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PMNRF for the families of those who died in the Goa tragedy, while the injured will be given ₹50,000 each, India Today reported.
